1997 Nissan Maxima vs. 1977 Toyota Celica
To start off, 1997 Nissan Maxima is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Toyota Celica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Toyota Celica would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Nissan Maxima (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1977 Toyota Celica. (86 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1977 Toyota Celica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 397 kg more than 1977 Toyota Celica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Toyota Celica is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1977 Toyota Celica. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Nissan Maxima, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Nissan Maxima (177 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Toyota Celica. (142 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Toyota Celica.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Nissan Maxima | 1977 Toyota Celica | |
| Make | Nissan | Toyota |
| Model | Maxima | Celica |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 948 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
